from Horsetalk.co.nz (dated 18Jan)

The New Zealand horse world is moving to assist the flood-stricken equestrian fraternity in Queensland and Victoria.

Vanessa Veart-Smith of Alexandra Park race way is liaising with the Australian Horse Industry Council and organising a load of cargo including covers, halters, lead ropes, feed bins and other horse gear.

The items will be flown to Brisbane by Qantas free of charge, IRT Director Ross Johnson said last week.

Items can be dropped off at Auckland's Alexandra Park, Greenlane Road West, Epsom. Saddlery Warehouse is also one of the collection points around the country.

The NZ Racing Board is also setting up posts at other racetracks around the country to take donated items.

Kiwi showing stalwart Elizabeth Charleston has moved to support the project.

"I have had the pleasure of competing at the Royal Queensland Show in Brisbane and have many equestrian friends in the area so I feel its time to step up and help these people that have been so hospitable to me in the past," she said.

"New Zealand prides itself on its equestrian community and many of these people are sitting at home watching the news and wanting to do something to help. This project is an ideal opportunity for people to do something productive and do their bit for their fellow equestrians struck by the disaster in Queensland."

While feed and supplements cannot be flown to Australia, items such as equine medical supplies and other gear is needed. Those donating items should ensure the gear is clean before dropping it off.

Australians are also rallying to help their countrymen, with goods being donated for use and many items being sold or auctioned to raise funds for the cause.

Among them is equestrian artist Stacey Byrnes, who has donated a piece of art work which is being auctioned on ebay. The winner of the auction can either have a graphite and charcoal picture of Phar Lap, or a picture of their own horse commissioned.